Peter Rufai: Nigeria’s Royal Goalkeeper Bows Out

Peter Rufai: Nigeria’s Royal Goalkeeper Bows Out

Peter Rufai, born on 24 August 1963 in Lagos, passed away today, 3 July 2025, leaving behind a legacy etched in both football history and royal tradition. Known fondly as “Dodo Mayana,” he was more than a goalkeeper—he was a symbol of calm, class, and courage between the posts.

A prince of Idimu in Lagos State, Rufai chose a different crown—that of a national hero. He earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles and stood tall at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where he was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper. That same year, he helped the team clinch its second African Cup of Nations title in Tunisia, delivering performances that sealed his place in Nigerian football folklore.

His club career spanned Europe, with stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, including time at Deportivo de La Coruña.

He shattered stereotypes about African players abroad, earning respect not just for his skill but for his intellect and fluency in multiple languages.

In 1998, Rufai briefly paused his career to honour his father’s passing, returning home to perform his duties as a prince.

Today, Nigeria mourns a legend who stood for excellence, dignity, and service. Dodo Mayana has taken his final bow.

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